Free things to do in Quebec City with kids: 7 outings that cost nothing
A family outing doesn't have to be expensive. In Quebec City, some of the best activities are free, especially in winter. Here are seven ideas where you only pay for parking (and hot chocolate).
In short: in winter, three free rinks (Place D'Youville, the Plains of Abraham and Pointe-aux-Lièvres, with sledding); year-round, Domaine de Maizerets; in summer, the Parcours des Anses in Lévis; in December, the Christmas markets.
Free skating and sledding
1. Place D'Youville rink
Quebec City's best-known rink, refrigerated, at the foot of Old Quebec's fortifications. Skate rentals and a service pavilion with washrooms.
- 995 Place D'Youville, Quebec City
- Mid-November to mid-March
- See the listing
2. Plains of Abraham ice ring
A refrigerated ice ring in the snowy setting of the Plains, with skate rentals, a snack bar and a picnic area.
- Plains of Abraham (Battlefields Park), Quebec City
- Mid-December to mid-March
- See the listing
3. Pointe-aux-Lièvres
A lit 1.5 km ice ring with a view of the Upper Town and a sledding hill, both free. Strollers are allowed on the ice.
- 25 Rue de la Pointe-aux-Lièvres, Quebec City
- See the listing
Strolling
4. Domaine de Maizerets
A large heritage estate full of ponds: mazes and an observation tower in summer, a lit ice ring and trails in winter. Free site access and parking.
- 2000 Montmorency Boulevard, Quebec City
- Daily 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- See the listing
5. Parcours des Anses
A paved bike path along the river, almost flat, with a magnificent view of Quebec City. Rated "very easy", ideal for young cyclists.
- Start at Parc de la rivière Etchemin, Lévis (free parking)
- Spring to fall
- See the listing
Christmas markets
6. Quebec City German Christmas Market
Six Old Quebec sites linked on foot, with chalets, shows and activities. Free admission.
- November 19 to December 23, 2026
- See the event
7. Grand Marché de Noël de Québec
Over 250 producers and artisans indoors, out of the cold, with family activities. Free admission.
- Le Grand Marché de Québec (Limoilou)
- November 21 to December 24, 2026
- See the event
Our tips
- The rinks are free, but skate rentals aren't: bring your own for a zero-cost outing.
- Place D'Youville is very busy on holiday evenings: come during the day with little ones.
- For more ideas, see our article Things to do in Quebec City with kids.
Frequently asked questions
Where can we skate for free in Quebec City?
At Place D'Youville, on the Plains of Abraham ice ring and at Pointe-aux-Lièvres.
Where can we go sledding for free in Quebec City?
On the sledding hill at Pointe-aux-Lièvres.
Is the Quebec City German Christmas Market free?
Yes, admission is free.
Information checked on October 13, 2026. Hours and conditions may change: confirm with each place before you go.
